DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You might have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. Complicated landscaping projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also necessitate machinery and construction experience.
Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are planning a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional. Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Queens Landscaping Company
Selecting the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
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Services Offered
Know what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include mowing, mulching, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services. You need a full-service landscaping company for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
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Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Queens city government. Your provider may employ the following certified staff members:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
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Reputation and Reviews
Find a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can look at third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to ensure a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Try to avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results.
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Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones that are similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
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Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaping company. Landscaping work on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
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Cost
Many companies offer free consultations. During this process, a contractor will review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will cover project costs such as materials and labor. We recommend getting multiple quotes from different companies, as you can use these to compare services and rates and sometimes negotiate a lower price.
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